työsuhdelainsäädäntö

Työsuhdelainsäädäntö, or Finnish employment law, consists of the rules governing the relationship between an employer and an employee. It covers how employment is formed, what rights and obligations apply during the employment, and how the relationship can end. The core instrument is the Työsopimuslaki, the Employment Contracts Act, which regulates the content and validity of employment contracts, the difference between fixed-term and open-ended contracts, probationary periods, and the minimum expectations that collective agreements may supplement or improve.

Other central laws address working conditions and safety. The Työturvallisuuslaki, the Occupational Safety and Health Act, ensures a safe and healthy working environment. The Työaikalaki, the Working Hours Act, and the Vuosilomalaki, the Annual Holidays Act, govern working time, rest periods, and vacation entitlements. In addition, anti-discrimination and equality provisions are part of the framework, with provisions in the Equality Act and the Non-Discrimination Act to promote equal treatment irrespective of gender, age, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or family status.

Collective agreements also play a significant role in Finnish työsuhdelainsäädäntö. These agreements negotiated by employee unions and employers can specify terms on wages, working time, leave, and layoff procedures, and may provide protections that exceed statutory minimums.

Enforcement and dispute resolution are handled through the Finnish legal system and relevant authorities. Breaches of employment law can be addressed through negotiations, administrative channels, or appeals to the labour courts. Overall, the regime aims to balance employer flexibility with employee protection, while allowing room for industry-specific terms through collective bargaining.